While my remarks were obviously made in good fun, I don’t think there’s anything particularly “radical” about passing meaningful campaign finance reform to reduce the influence of special interests in Albany, raising the minimum wage to assist working families, ensuring that women earn equal pay for equal work, or protecting the rights of our society’s most vulnerable.

“I am proud that Professor Jenny Rivera has finally been confirmed as Court of Appeals Judge. Professor Rivera will bring intellect, judgment and experience, while presiding over cases affecting millions of New Yorkers.

New York's new gun control measures passed by the legislature - the first state in the nation to take up such action following an onslaught of recent tragedies - helps pave the way for the toughest gun regulations in the country

New York State Senator Adriano Espaillat released the following statement regarding the Newtown, Connecticut shooting on Friday which resulted in the deaths of 26 people, including 20 children.

“As we learn more and more about the tragic shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, it is clear that we need strong, decisive action against gun violence. Along with prayers for victims of this horrific tragedy, we must take specific steps to combat the rampant flow of guns in our society.

“In New York State, we must pass common-sense gun safety measures like mandatory renewal requirements of firearm licenses; micro-stamping ammunition so criminals can be easier to track and deter; and enhanced scrutiny for mentally unstable individuals seeking guns.

New York State Senator Adriano Espaillat (D – Manhattan/Bronx) released the following statement in response to the new Senate leadership structure that divides power between the Republican and the Independent Democratic Conference (IDC).

“Though I proudly and actively campaigned for Democratic candidates throughout the state this year, election season is over. It’s time for the real work to begin in pursuit of common sense, progressive policies that move New York State forward.

Report demonstrates that full campaign finance reform would cost New Yorkers less than $2 per year

New York State Senator Adriano Espaillat (D – Manhattan/Bronx) released the following statement in response to new findings demonstrating that campaign finance reform, including public matching funds, would not be cost prohibitive for New Yorkers. The report was released by the non-partisan Campaign Finance Institute.